The Panther Post
Vol 5, Issue 1
A Message from Mrs. Pittser, Superintendent
It has been a remarkable first quarter at Miami Trace!
As you read through this newsletter, along with the monthly updates from our building principals, we hope you feel the incredible sense of MT Pride that unites our school community. We remain committed to engaging students, families, and community members who work together to maintain a positive and healthy learning environment for all.
Mission Moment
To provide a quality education, with opportunities and relationships, that cultivates success.
Crews have arrived and construction has officially begun on Miami Trace’s new Wellness Center! This versatile facility is being funded through Student Wellness Funds and Permanent Improvement Funds, ensuring that our general operating budget remains unaffected.
The Wellness Center represents our continued investment in the health and well-being of our school community. It will replace the current Learning Center, which houses our alternative school, special education programs, credit flex options, mental health services, and other community-focused initiatives.
The new facility, expected to be completed by June 2025, will serve as a valuable resource in supporting our school community. We look forward to sharing updates with the community as construction progresses.
⭐ 4 Star ! ⭐
The Department of Education and Workforce (DEW) released the State Report Cards. These reports are designed to give staff members, parents/guardians and school communities information about the district.
We are extremely proud of the collaboration and emphasis placed on serving the whole child at Miami Trace. Whether directly or indirectly, every staff member and student experience impact the report card outcomes. Congrats to all across the District as each building received a 4 out of 5-Star Rating for the 2023-2024 school year!
Attendance Matters … Always
In alignment with our district's strategic plan, the attendance committee recently led efforts to promote Attendance Awareness Month. and continues its year-round efforts to improve attendance. Representing all buildings and departments, these members are making a real difference, and we appreciate their dedication.
According to the statewide data, Miami Trace decreased chronic absenteeism by 5% from 2022-23 to the 2023-24 school year, which is a tremendous reduction.
In turn, the attendance rate for all students has increased from last year’s first quarter rate of 93.6% to this year’s rate of 96.1%.
Way to go Panthers! Let’s keep it up because “Your future starts with being here today.”
Alumni Spotlight
Trey Tompkins, Class of 2005
Owner & Personal Trainer | Horizon Athletic
As the owner and trainer of Horizon Athletic, I oversee the day-to-day operations of the business while also providing personalized fitness coaching to my clients. My responsibilities include managing relationships with clients, designing and adjusting workout programs tailored to individual needs, and offering personal training sessions as well as youth athletic classes. I handle the financial aspects of the business, such as pricing models, membership options, and the recent expansion of the gym space. In addition, I focus on marketing through social media, fostering a strong community within the gym, and ensuring my training programs help clients reach their goals.
What would you like to share about your life and journey since graduating from Miami Trace?
The core of who you are in our school years remains very much in tact, however, I've come to learn that we evolve into entirely different people as we age. Who I was, my behavior, my values, my perspective, is different than when I was younger. Since graduating, I've found that the lessons we receive in life are more important than the success, failure, mistakes or achievements we garner. Life is about continuing to learn and it will not stop at your graduation.
What is one personal or professional achievement you are most proud of since graduating from Miami Trace?
A personal achievement that I'm most proud of us completing the 74 mile Georgia Death Race trail run. It's something I initially scoffed at as impossible for me. I took that on as a challenge to overcome and I not only ran it once, but completed it two years in a row. It had given me an entirety different outlook on who I am and what I'm capable of. Fulfilling this achievement has given me the strength to shoot for a 3rd attempt at the run.
What is your favorite memory from your time at Miami Trace?
There's no singular memory I have in particular, so much as the warmth of remembering the bond I shared with teammates that became friends. I felt like being in that environment brought me the most joy and something to look forward to.
What advice would you give to current Miami Trace students as they prepare for their future?
The world is in dire need of your greatest potential. The advice I would give is to recognize how essential you are in a person or people's lives. This has been my own drive and motivation. We don't just need each other, we need each other at our best and to learn how to define that as individuals and within a community.
Panthers in Pictures
Communication is Key
We encourage you to ensure clear communication throughout the school year by keeping your contact information up to date in Final Forms -- enabling you to receive important district updates via phone calls, text messages, and emails.
Click on the links or graphic below for more ways to stay connected!
- Events, News & Resources | District App & District Website
- Social Media | Facebook & Instagram
- Communicate with Teachers & Coaches | Remind App
- Central Office Phone | 740-335-3010
Our goal is to support you and your student(s) in order to have the most exceptional school year possible. Please contact us if we can assist you in acquiring any of the above communication tools.
Business Advisory Council
The Fayette County Business Advisory Council is an organization that fosters cooperation among businesses and the local school districts. This collaboration makes our education systems aware of the local labor market, promotes career exploration experiences and helps students prepare for successful learning and employment opportunities. Members of the Fayette County BAC partner with district leaders and staff members to plan and carry out the initiatives created by the county-level council. Ultimately, we want to continue our preparations for students to enter the world of work.
If you own a business or work for a company interested in partnering with Fayette County Schools, please reach out to us. Our next meeting is scheduled for November 15, 2024.
Health & Wellness
Brought to you by Fayette County Public Health
It’s time to fall into healthy habits! The fall and winter seasons usually bring an increase in flu cases. Now is a great time to get a flu vaccine if that is something you choose to do. Ages 6 months and older are able to receive the flu vaccine.
Where can I get a flu vaccine?
Several places in the community that offer them such as local pharmacies, physicians offices, and the health department.
If you have any health-related questions or concerns, contact your school clinic to speak with any of our nurses.
Miami Trace Local School District
Website | https://www.miamitrace.k12.oh.us/
Location | 3818 State Route 41 NW, Washington Court House, OH
Phone | 740-335-3010
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/miamitracelocalschools/